1 Corinthians 7:27

Authorized King James Version

Art thou bound unto a wife? seek not to be loosed. Art thou loosed from a wife? seek not a wife.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
δέδεσαι
Art thou bound
to bind (in various applications, literally or figuratively)
#2
γυναῖκα
a wife
a woman; specially, a wife
#3
μὴ
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#4
ζήτει
seek
to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by hebraism) to worship (god), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)
#5
λύσιν·
Art thou loosed
a loosening, i.e., (specially), divorce
#6
λέλυσαι
to be loosed
to "loosen" (literally or figuratively)
#7
ἀπὸ
from
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
#8
γυναῖκα
a wife
a woman; specially, a wife
#9
μὴ
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#10
ζήτει
seek
to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by hebraism) to worship (god), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)
#11
γυναῖκα
a wife
a woman; specially, a wife

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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